After the kids have flown the nest, there's no better time to consider making the big move to a smaller property - a place where you can start afresh and a new home to make new memories.
Whether you're looking for a bungalow or simply a house with fewer rooms, we've got some tips to help you on your downsizing journey.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
We're guilty of having a 'miscellaneous' cupboard, a loft full of dusty boxes or a door that must stay closed whenever a guest comes to visit, but downsizing provides the perfect opportunity for a good spring clean. Why not tackle the clutter head-on and decide what to take into your next chapter?
However, before throwing away an item, consider whether you could give it a new lease of life in your home first. Simple touches such as upgrading cupboard handles or updating a forgotten sideboard with a fresh lick of paint really can make all the difference.
Alternatively, why not send your preloved items to a new home? After all, as the saying goes 'one man's trash is another man's treasure'. Look out for local community car boot sales or websites like PreLoved, as these can be a useful avenue for your unwanted items.
Storage Solutions
When downsizing, it's important to consider just how much space you'll be working with in your new home. Areas of your home like the garage could be perfect for storing larger items, but think carefully about how you'll store books, plants and jewellery as the space could easily become cluttered.
Shelving units can really help to maximise your space, as well as being a focal point to the room. On the market today you'll find a vast array of storage solutions - from headboard shelves and bed frame drawers, to foldaway desks and floating shelves.
Spare room
You'd be forgiven for thinking that now your children have families of their own, there won't be any need for them to stay over. In reality, big family occasions such as birthdays, Christmas or New Year celebrations often call for late nights and as such, you'll have a extra mouths to feed and 'put up' for the night. Downsizing to a home with one (or two) spare bedrooms is particularly useful in these situations, where space is sometimes a luxury!
A spare bedroom is the perfect space where guests can rest and unwind, as well as providing them with some privacy during their stay - a home away from home.
While a spare room can provide an extremely versatile option for welcoming guests for a long-weekend stay, it can double up as a space for your own needs. If you've been meaning to start your business from home or pick up a new hobby, then now's your chance.
if we've inspired you to take the next step towards downsizing, why not share your transformations with us on our Instagram page?